Three takeaway points from ALA Midwinter

ALA Midwinter was exhilarating! I met countless dedicated library professionals who are fired up and not shy about sharing their thoughts of our future. I applaud each of you for your passion and accomplishments.

Everything that I heard and saw, I take to heart. Here are my three distinct takeaway points:

1. Melinda Gates is incredibly inspiring! Her commitment to empowering women can be summed up as a simple and focused force that is changing the world. Energy filled the room as she shared example after example of simple things that we can do to eliminate bias, leveling the field for all of us. Society as a whole benefits from the virtues of equality.
2. ALA members are eager for change. There is a lot that ALA does incredibly well, but there’s a growing sentiment that ALA has become overly insulated and bureaucratic. Many members told me that their voices are not heard and opportunities for engagement are limited. Continuing to elect status quo leaders will only continue the status quo. It’s time for a candidate who is a catalyst and champion for change, elevating the library profession by first elevating individuals.
3. It’s time to separate the talk from the walk on diversity and inclusion, and focus on the walk. An unfortunate encounter between two members at a council forum illustrates the need to acknowledge racism and bias, but more importantly it shows the need for action. I’m sorry I wasn’t at that forum. For anyone to have encountered this is unconscionable. Especially in a profession that prides itself on kindness, empathy and love. I have no tolerance for those who fail to walk the talk. This is not a cause for more meetings and committees. This is a cause for action. It’s perfectly clear to me that this calls for an investigation followed by consequences for anyone who blatantly disregards ALA Code of Conduct.

So here’s my “ask” of you: Vote. Your voice will be heard and will make a difference. Thanks for your dedication to the library profession and I would be honored to serve as your ALA President.

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Lance Werner is a candidate for President of the @AmericanLibraryAssociation. Learn more at LanceWerner.com. #AmericanLibraryAssociation #LibrariesTransform #ALAMW19